Low loader shipping is a method used for transporting large and unwieldy items that cannot be accommodated on standard trailers or trucks. It involves the use of low loaders, which have a deck that is closer to the ground and can carry heavy loads. This type of shipping is particularly suitable for machinery, construction equipment, agricultural vehicles, military vehicles, boats and other similar items.
The advantage of low loader shipping lies in its ability to handle items that are too heavy, wide, long or tall to be transported by conventional means. Additionally it provides protection and care for fragile or valuable goods that require special attention. Another benefit is the loaders capability to access challenging or remote locations where regular trailers or trucks cannot reach.
Low loader shipping can be a convenient and cost-effective way to move your heavy equipment from one place to another. However, low loader shipping also involves some challenges and expenses that you should be aware of and prepared for. You don’t want to end up paying more than you expected or receiving poor service from a low loader shipping company.
To ensure that you maximize your investment and guarantee the transportation of your heavy equipment it’s important to have an understanding of the typical expenses associated with low loader shipping per mile as well as the various factors that impact these costs. Additionally selecting a trustworthy and dependable low loader shipping company is crucial to ensure your heavy equipment receives care and professionalism.
In this article we will delve into the expenses linked to low loader shipping per mile and explore the key elements that influence them. Furthermore we will provide you with tips on how to make an informed choice when selecting a reliable low loader shipping company.
Average Cost of Low Loader Shipping Per Mile
The cost of transporting goods using low loader shipping per mile can vary due to factors, including the nature of the load, equipment size, weather conditions, shipment distance, destination, transportation method and delivery urgency. Different sources suggest that the average cost of low loader shipping, per mile falls between $1.00 and $5.00. However it’s important to note that this is an estimate and the actual cost may differ depending on the unique circumstances surrounding your shipment.
Here are some of the factors that influence the cost of low loader shipping per mile:
Type of load
The type of load that you want to ship affects the cost of low loader shipping per mile. Different types of loads have different weights, dimensions, shapes, and requirements that affect the difficulty and complexity of loading, securing, transporting, and unloading them. For example, shipping a boat may cost more than shipping a tractor because a boat may require more specialized equipment and handling than a tractor.
Size of the equipment
The size of the equipment that you want to ship affects the cost of low loader shipping per mile. Larger equipment may require larger or more trailers to transport them. Larger equipment may also require more permits, escorts, or route adjustments to comply with the legal limits and regulations for oversize loads. For example, shipping a 40-foot long crane may cost more than shipping a 20-foot long excavator because a crane may require more trailers or permits than an excavator.
Weather conditions
The cost of low loader shipping per mile can be influenced by the weather conditions during the time of shipment. Unfavorable weather conditions like rain, snow, fog, wind or heat might lead to delays, accidents or damages during transportation. Moreover such adverse weather conditions often demand precautions, preparations or adjustments to ensure a safe and seamless transport process. For instance shipping in winter may incur costs compared to summer shipments due to the need for de-icing equipment, snow removal measures or heating arrangements.
Shipment distance
The cost of low loader shipping per mile can vary depending on the distance of the shipment. When transporting goods over distances there are additional factors to consider such as increased fuel consumption, maintenance requirements and labor costs. Moreover longer distances also pose a risk of wear and tear potential breakdowns or even theft during transportation. For instance shipping goods across the country is likely to be more expensive compared to shipping within a single state since cross country transportation often entails higher fuel consumption, maintenance expenses and labor costs compared to local shipments within the state.
Destination
The cost of low loader shipping per mile can be influenced by the destination. Various factors such as road conditions, traffic patterns, tolls, taxes and regulations can vary from one destination to another impacting the ease and expense of transportation. Additionally demand and supply factors specific to each destination can affect the availability and price of low loader shipping services. For instance transporting goods to an area might incur higher costs compared to an urban area due to poorer road conditions, lower traffic volume, higher tolls or stricter regulations, in rural areas.
Transport method
The cost of low loader shipping, per mile is influenced by the chosen transportation method. When it comes to low loader shipping there are options like open carriers, enclosed trailers, flatbed tow trucks or dollies. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, security, protection and speed. It is important to consider these factors and select the transportation method that best suits your needs. For instance opting for a carrier might be more affordable compared to an enclosed trailer due to overhead costs, higher capacity or faster delivery times.
Urgency of delivery
The price of transporting equipment using low loader shipping per mile is influenced by the urgency of delivery. If you have a date or time requirement for your equipment delivery opting for expedited or guaranteed delivery services may incur higher costs. On the other hand if you have flexibility with your delivery schedule you can potentially save money by selecting standard or economy delivery services. To illustrate, choosing next day delivery might be more expensive compared to 3 day delivery due to the resources, coordination and priority involved in next day shipping.
Tips for Choosing a Good Low Loader Shipping Company
Choosing a good low loader shipping company is crucial for ensuring that your heavy equipment is shipped safely and securely. You don’t want to end up with damaged, lost, or stolen equipment after entrusting it to a low loader shipping company.
To ensure that you choose a good low loader shipping company, you should do some research and compare different options. Here are some tips for choosing a good low loader shipping company:
Check their credentials
Make sure to verify their credentials and ensure that they are registered, licensed, insured and bonded. Additionally it’s essential to review their safety records and ratings on platforms such as the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Better Business Bureau (BBB) Transport Reviews and similar sites.
Check their experience
Make sure to assess their experience and confirm if they have dealt with types of loads and equipment in the past. It’s also important to review their testimonials and feedback, from customers who have utilized their services. Additionally requesting references and reaching out to them for verification of satisfaction and feedback is advisable.
Check their equipment
Make sure to inspect their equipment and ensure that they possess suitable trailers and trucks for transporting your heavy machinery. Additionally review their maintenance and inspection records to confirm that they are up to date and in condition. It is also important to assess their loading, securing and unloading protocols for both safety and efficiency purposes.
Check their rates
Make sure to review their prices and ensure they are fair and competitive. Additionally request a written quote that encompasses all fees and charges related to your shipment. Don’t forget to inquire about any discounts or promotions they may have. It’s also wise to compare their rates with low loader shipping companies to find the most value for your money.
Check their customer service
Make sure to evaluate their customer service and ensure they are prompt, polite and adept. Additionally inquire about their communication and tracking methods to ensure they are dependable and easy to reach. It’s also important to ask about their policies and guarantees to ensure they are transparent and equitable.
Conclusion
Transporting bulky or oversized items that can’t fit on a regular trailer or truck is known as low loader shipping. It’s a cost effective way to move heavy equipment from one location to another. However it does come with its set of challenges and expenses that you should be prepared for.
To ensure the secure shipment of your heavy equipment it’s important to have an understanding of the average cost per mile, for low loader shipping and the various factors that influence it. Additionally selecting an reputable low loader shipping company that can handle your equipment with care and professionalism is crucial.
